How to make the most of International Student Services at U.S. Universities

ISS is usually the first place an international student should check in with after arrival. ISS usually arrange an International Student Orientation that initiates new international students in the legalities of stay in the United States, and the practicalities of setting up life as a student

International students at U.S. universities have a distinct set of needs different from those who are based in the United States. International students need to understand the legal parameters governing their student stay in the country, and may need support integrating into the campus and culture.

Recognizing this, many U.S. universities have an office dedicated to supporting international students. This may typically run under a name like International Student and Scholar Services or International Student Services, shorted to ISSS or ISS.

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ISS is usually the first place an international student should check in with after arrival. ISS usually arrange an International Student Orientation that initiates new international students in the legalities of stay in the United States, and the practicalities of setting up life as a student.

They may also conduct a fair that showcases the opportunities for involvement on campus, and often have options for picking up students at the airport and taking them to the university.

Most significantly, ISS supports international students in maintaining their legal status in the United States. This involves providing students with I-20 forms, guidance on maintaining full-time enrolment, registration by the relevant deadlines each year, the importance of address updates and maintaining valid passports, filing tax forms, and the legalities for travel beyond the United States.

They may also highlight prevalent scams that international students may be vulnerable to. They can be the first point of contact when students need to locate university resources on accommodation, setting up bank accounts, and other matters pertaining to student life.

Very critically, ISS advises on employment or practical training permissible on the student visa, i.e. on-campus employment, Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).

The application process for both CPT and OPT are processed through their office. They may further discuss the legal requirements for studying and interning outside the United States, if such opportunities are available at the university.

Beyond this, ISS also supports international students in bridging into their new environment. At different universities, you might find ISS conducting events like having local families host international students for holiday meals, game nights, sessions for practicing English, sessions on matters like self-care or U.S. dating culture, getting to know your campus police, or a dog-petting or yoga session.

Most ISS offices have options for student consultations either through appointments or hours where students may drop in. They often run information sessions or workshops, training students on various aspects of their F1 visa and its precise permissions in terms of work, finances, and travel. ISS emails are among the most important a student can receive.

While ISS provides information and is available to guide, it is the student’s responsibility to ensure they take advantage of this resource, meticulously read their emails, track alerts, follow injunctions, participate in events, and seek guidance as needed, so as to ensure they maintain status and make the most of their stay as a student in the United States.